Dhu Varren Community’s Christmas Tree Event in Portrush Approved After Initial Hurdles

Residents in a Portrush community, who had fundraised for their own Christmas tree lights switch-on following the cancellation of the town’s official event, have received confirmation that their gathering can proceed, overcoming initial insurance-related obstacles. The inhabitants of Dhu Varren had previously expressed disappointment upon learning they lacked the necessary license to host the event on land owned by the Housing Executive. This development occurred after the community had contributed nearly £1,000 for a Christmas tree, which was scheduled to be illuminated on Monday. Nevertheless, with assistance from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), the fire service, and political figures, the event is now set to proceed as originally intended, prompting one of the primary organizers to state they were “lost for words.” Leeanne Montgomery, a local resident and one of the organizers, described the process as “stressful.” She noted, “We were faced with so many obstacles; two councillors were brilliant in helping us.” Montgomery added, “It gives us the power to make Dhu Varren a bigger and better place.” Claire Sugden, an independent unionist assembly member, commented on the BBC’s Good Morning Ulster programme that it was “incredible” that the residents had arranged their own event. She further stated, “Dhu Varren is an area of social deprivation, they don’t often get much.” Ms. Montgomery and the Dhu Varren residents initiated their efforts after the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council declared the cancellation of the yearly Portrush Christmas tree switch-on event, citing stormy weather conditions. They subsequently inquired if the council would provide a tree for their estate’s event; the council agreed, contingent on the residents contributing £900 towards its cost. Following a successful crowdfunding campaign to raise the necessary funds, residents planned to host the grand switch-on event on Monday, December 23. However, the event encountered a setback when the Housing Executive indicated it was unable to issue a temporary license for the community to proceed with the gathering. The Housing Executive clarified that temporary licenses, which are essential for meeting health and safety as well as insurance stipulations, are exclusively granted to “constituted organisations.” Ms. Montgomery stated that residents had personally funded insurance, but it proved to be “the wrong type,” making the event’s cancellation seem probable. Nevertheless, with backing from various entities, including the police, the fire service, and the Causeway Coast and Glens Council, Dhu Varren will now be able to host its Christmas event. PSNI Superintendent McIldowney informed BBC News NI that local officers “work closely with those involved in these types of community safety events, to ensure they are safe and enjoyed by participants and spectators” and confirmed that officers would be present on Monday. Clive Lowry from the NI Fire and Rescue Service indicated that his organization would also be assisting the Housing Executive and residents in organizing the event. He further remarked, “I am personally very proud of the Dhu Varren community members who have done so much work to bring about this community event.” Richard Stewart, a Causeway Coast and Glens councillor, expressed that he was “absolutely thrilled that the council and PSNI have engaged with the Housing Executive to get this event to go ahead.” He also stated, “So much work has been put in.” For Ms. Montgomery, the outcome brings relief, despite the residents having prepared a contingency “plan B” for their Christmas celebration. She revealed, “We were going to let people drive up the estate for two hours and pass presents through the car windows.” Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.